Head of Supply Chain

Role overview

A major food manufacturing and distribution business is hiring a senior supply chain leader to run its end-to-end operation from the Hull site in East Riding of Yorkshire. This position suits an experienced professional who can oversee procurement, logistics, warehousing and inventory control in a fast-moving, temperature-managed environment.

Reporting to the Operations Director, you will help support expansion, deepen supplier relationships, lift operational results and build a supply chain that is both robust and efficient. You will work alongside colleagues in operations, production, sales, quality and finance to improve processes while protecting compliance, customer service and cost discipline.

Key responsibilities

In this role, you will provide both strategic direction and day-to-day leadership across purchasing, supply planning, warehousing and distribution. You will manage the buying of fresh and frozen raw materials, packaging, ingredients and consumables, while building effective partnerships with suppliers in the UK and overseas.

You will shape supply chain strategy, improve demand forecasting and stock control, and create contingency plans to keep supply secure. The position also covers inbound and outbound transport, coordination of third-party logistics providers and transport partners, and driving service levels and cost effectiveness.

A major part of the job is maintaining cold-chain standards, improving on-time-in-full performance and making warehouse operations more efficient. You will also lead compliance, food safety and risk management activity, ensuring traceability throughout the supply chain and supporting both regulatory and customer requirements.

Beyond operations, you will champion continuous improvement, interpret performance data, strengthen supply chain reporting and support better business systems and workflows. As a senior manager, you will coach your team, build strong cross-functional relationships and foster a collaborative working culture.

What you will need

To succeed in this role, you should bring substantial experience leading supply chain, procurement, logistics and warehousing within manufacturing, food production, FMCG or a similar setting.

You should have a strong record in supplier management, contract negotiations, stock optimisation and improving logistics performance. Experience with temperature-controlled supply chains, third-party logistics providers and complex supplier networks will be particularly valuable.

You will need confidence in improving forecasting, handling operational risk and delivering savings without compromising quality or compliance. Strong leadership and stakeholder influence skills are essential, along with a commercial mindset, analytical thinking and a clear commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Working pattern and location

This is a full-time onsite role based in Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire. The working pattern is Monday to Friday.

Reward and opportunity

The role offers a salary of £65,000 to £70,000 and the chance to join a growing organisation in a strategically important leadership position. You will have the opportunity to shape supply chain direction, influence overall business performance and lead a critical function within a dynamic food manufacturing and distribution environment.

You will also play a central part in building supply chain capability, strengthening supplier partnerships and delivering long-term improvements across the business.

Application guidance

If you are interested in this opportunity, you can submit your CV through the usual application route or get in touch for a confidential discussion about your next career move.

Terms and conditions

This opportunity is being handled by a specialist recruitment agency for permanent hiring. The role is governed by the employer's standard employment, privacy and disclaimer terms.